Day Trip North of Chiang Rai
"Oh the places you’ll go." Dr Seuss
4/8/20249 min read
Despite our visit coinciding with the burning season in Northern Thailand, we were determined to explore the historical sites further north. With assistance from "M," the concierge at Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, we connected with a local tour guide/driver named Chai. Feel free to DM us for his contact details. Chai, in his comfortable and impeccably clean Toyota SUV, took us on a loop through the northern region, covering both our planned destinations and some hidden gems he recommended.
Karen Village
Our adventure began with a prompt 8:00 AM pickup from our hotel, setting off on a 20-minute drive (15 km) towards the Karen Village. The Karen tribe, originally from Burma, sought refuge in Thailand due to conflicts in their homeland. Today, they sustain themselves through agriculture and tourism. Strolling through their village, we witnessed their traditional way of life, from their distinctive housing to their age-old cooking methods. We explored the local stalls, interacted with the villagers, and purchased some of their handmade crafts. However, the highlight for us was undoubtedly interacting with the children. Their joy and laughter were infectious as we shared candies with them and watched the boys engage in marble games while the girls tended to their tasks.
Wat Tham Pla - The Fish Cave Temple or the Monkey Temple
Following our visit to the Karen Village, Chai suggested a visit to the lesser-known Wat Tham Pla, also known as the Fish Cave Temple or the Monkey Temple, a 45-minute drive north (43 km) from our current location. Nestled against the backdrop of the Doi Nang Non Mountain Range, this temple complex boasts ancient stupas alongside eccentric modern temples. As we wandered through the complex, we encountered friendly monkeys, and a local gentleman generously provided fresh corn and bananas for us to feed them. Despite his refusal of payment, we left him with a small donation as a token of gratitude.
Tham Luang Cave
Continuing our journey northward within the same mountain range, we arrived at Tham Luang Cave, a mere 20-minute drive (14 km) from Wat Tham Pla. This cave complex gained global attention in 2018 when a local football team became trapped inside for 18 days due to flooding. The Netflix limited series, "The Rescue," vividly portrays this remarkable rescue operation. Accessing the cave involves a slightly convoluted process, as locals have capitalized on its fame. However, the organized system and nominal fee are well worth the experience. As we walked through the cave, we marveled at the daunting conditions the boys and rescuers endured.
Mae Sai Market and Border Crossing
From the cave, we embarked on an 18-minute drive (9 km) to the bustling Mae Sai market and border crossing—the northernmost point of Thailand. Although our attempt to cross into Burma was thwarted due to safety concerns, we enjoyed exploring the market stalls brimming with goods from Myanmar and China. We also visited Wat Phrathat Doi Wao, affectionately known as the Scorpion Temple, where we ascended a steep staircase or opted for a taxi/truck ride for a mere 20 THB ($0.55 USD) round trip. The temple's eccentricity, coupled with the breathtaking views from the Skywalk into Myanmar, made it a memorable stop.
Golden Triangle Viewpoint and House of Opium Museum
A 25-minute drive (26 km) from Mae Sai brought us to the Golden Triangle viewpoint, offering stunning panoramas of the confluence of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand. While the lower viewpoint is popular, we recommend venturing to the hilltop for a quieter experience and a visit to the temple. Don't forget to stop at the House of Opium Museum nearby, where you'll gain insights into the region's opium trade history.
Returning to Le Méridien Resort Chiang Rai from the Golden Triangle takes approximately 1 hour, marking the end of our enriching day trip.
Despite our visit coinciding with the burning season in Northern Thailand, we were determined to explore the historical sites further north. With assistance from "M," the concierge at Le Méridien Chiang Rai Resort, we connected with a local tour guide/driver named Chai. Feel free to DM us for his contact details. Chai, in his comfortable and impeccably clean Toyota SUV, took us on a loop through the northern region, covering both our planned destinations and some hidden gems he recommended.
Karen Village
Our adventure began with a prompt 8:00 AM pickup from our hotel, setting off on a 20-minute drive (15 km) towards the Karen Village. The Karen tribe, originally from Burma, sought refuge in Thailand due to conflicts in their homeland. Today, they sustain themselves through agriculture and tourism. Strolling through their village, we witnessed their traditional way of life, from their distinctive housing to their age-old cooking methods. We explored the local stalls, interacted with the villagers, and purchased some of their handmade crafts. However, the highlight for us was undoubtedly interacting with the children. Their joy and laughter were infectious as we shared candies with them and watched the boys engage in marble games while the girls tended to their tasks.
Wat Tham Pla - The Fish Cave Temple or the Monkey Temple
Following our visit to the Karen Village, Chai suggested a visit to the lesser-known Wat Tham Pla, also known as the Fish Cave Temple or the Monkey Temple, a 45-minute drive north (43 km) from our current location. Nestled against the backdrop of the Doi Nang Non Mountain Range, this temple complex boasts ancient stupas alongside eccentric modern temples. As we wandered through the complex, we encountered friendly monkeys, and a local gentleman generously provided fresh corn and bananas for us to feed them. Despite his refusal of payment, we left him with a small donation as a token of gratitude.
Tham Luang Cave
Continuing our journey northward within the same mountain range, we arrived at Tham Luang Cave, a mere 20-minute drive (14 km) from Wat Tham Pla. This cave complex gained global attention in 2018 when a local football team became trapped inside for 18 days due to flooding. The Netflix limited series, "The Rescue," vividly portrays this remarkable rescue operation. Accessing the cave involves a slightly convoluted process, as locals have capitalized on its fame. However, the organized system and nominal fee are well worth the experience. As we walked through the cave, we marveled at the daunting conditions the boys and rescuers endured.
Mae Sai Market and Border Crossing
From the cave, we embarked on an 18-minute drive (9 km) to the bustling Mae Sai market and border crossing—the northernmost point of Thailand. Although our attempt to cross into Burma was thwarted due to safety concerns, we enjoyed exploring the market stalls brimming with goods from Myanmar and China. We also visited Wat Phrathat Doi Wao, affectionately known as the Scorpion Temple, where we ascended a steep staircase or opted for a taxi/truck ride for a mere 20 THB ($0.55 USD) round trip. The temple's eccentricity, coupled with the breathtaking views from the Skywalk into Myanmar, made it a memorable stop.
Golden Triangle Viewpoint and House of Opium Museum
A 25-minute drive (26 km) from Mae Sai brought us to the Golden Triangle viewpoint, offering stunning panoramas of the confluence of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand. While the lower viewpoint is popular, we recommend venturing to the hilltop for a quieter experience and a visit to the temple. Don't forget to stop at the House of Opium Museum nearby, where you'll gain insights into the region's opium trade history.
Returning to Le Méridien Resort Chiang Rai from the Golden Triangle takes approximately 1 hour, marking the end of our enriching day trip.
